Annex Food Hall: A Perfect Fit For Toronto's Eclectic Neighbourhood ⋆ Food Health & Parenting Tips

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What defines a neighbourhood? Well, it really comes down to two things: the people, and the attitude. People often choose to visit or live in a neighbourhood based on its attitude and outlook. Communities often take a lot of pride in how they view themselves and how they’re viewed by others. This couldn’t be truer than in the Annex, quite possibly one of the most eclectic neighbourhoods in Toronto.

Taking the Neighbourhood By Storm

Home to a rich assortment of independent eateries and bars, bookstores, record stores and beyond, chain businesses have never really found a home there. This is a defining characteristic of the area and one of the main reasons the Annex Food Hall is a perfect fit. Taking over the space formerly occupied by neighbourhood staple grocery store Superfresh, the folks behind the communal eating space had no intentions of doing anything but complementing the vibe of the neighbourhood by showcasing local vendors.

Keeping It Local

Having a diverse offering of locally owned and operated businesses was only the tip of the iceberg for this place. The same flooring and paint job remain from the Superfresh days, along with a few other choice appliances from the grocer. Along the walls are vintage photos of the area displaying the Annex’s rich history.

A Great Vibe

The vendors all work a communal prep area as well, adding to the shared feeling that I got as soon as I walked through the door. This has to be the most unpretentious food hall in the city. An abundance of shared seating and large windows offer an amazing dining experience. Add to that a cheerful busser and dining manager. This place runs like a restaurant but feels like a picnic.

As far the food is concerned, no matter your palette there is something here for everyone, and a single meal won’t run you more than twenty bucks. It won’t be long before there is a bar on site, offering local beer and signatures cocktails for each vendor.

Here’s a list of what you’ll find:

PG Cluck’s – The juiciest fried chicken in the city, hands down.
El Nahual – The homemade tortillas are a game changer.
Dal Moros – Fresh handmade pasta to die for.
Urban Herbivore – Approachable and thoughtfully prepared vegan.
Mean Bao – The tofu and mushroom is a stand out.
Eat BKK – Way more than pad thai. Try the Khao Soi.
Smoked Up Meats – No need for a trip to Montreal for high quality smoked meat.